Category Archives: EUROPE

Tokyo and Osaka fashion: H&M to introduce Monki and Weekday to Japan in the future

Kanako Itamae and Michel Lebon

Modern Tokyo Times

The fashion company Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M) is going from strength to strength in Japan. This reality means that H&M will introduce two of their brands to Japan within the near future. Currently, it is perceived that the brands Monki and Weekday will be introduced to Japan in early 2014 but this date could feasibly be moved forward.

H&M in 2012 decided on opening up new stores in Japan and this most notably applies to Nagoya. After all, in Tokyo and other parts of Kanto the brand H&M is part of the fashion landscape for many fashion lovers. The other major city which was targeted by H&M was Osaka. However, it is hoped that in the future that this company will further consolidate in other parts of Kansai because of the vibrancy of the entire region.

The vibrancy of fashion in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka is simply amazing. This applies to the intriguing variations of fashion within Tokyo and Osaka respectively. It is more than likely that Monki and Weekday will follow the Tokyo and Osaka route.

Fashion in Japan is an extremely vibrant sector and clearly H&M is raking in the rewards. Sales throughout the first nine months of 2012 in Japan remain vibrant, despite the negative global economy. This reality means that H&M is extremely positive about the future of this company in Japan. Therefore, it is believed that not only will Monki and Weekday enhance the reputation of H&M in Japan; but equally important, this new initiative will preserve the reputation of H&M because both brands will bring a new freshness.

On the following link (http://www.adbrands.net) many fine attributes are stated about H&M. The above highlighted website comments that “H&M is one of Europe’s two leading clothing brands, seemingly immune from the woes than have plagued many other retailers, not least US rival Gap. One key selling point has been an annual collaboration with different star designers.”

In many fashion surveys in Tokyo the name H&M featured highly with regards to ladies who adore the richness of amazing boutiques. Therefore, if the past is to be relied on, it would appear that Monki and Weekday will further enhance H&M in Japan.

Why no US sanctions against France, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UK for supporting FSA terrorism?

Murad Makhmudov and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The United States after the barbaric attack by mainly Saudi citizens on September 11 stated that they would adopt a policy aimed at crushing terrorism. If so, will France, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UK face American sanctions for supporting the brutal terrorist policies of the Free Syrian Army (FSA)? This is a fair question because the FSA is behind countless terrorist attacks including killing politicians, targeting journalists, using car bombs to slaughter innocents and other vile deeds.

Individuals may or may not support the government of Syria; however, this isn’t the point. At no time in recent history was a terrorist organization like the FSA supported openly by so many governments. The United States is clearly involved in CIA covert acts against Syria and this is notable in Turkey because of the geopolitical reality. However, despite this the Obama administration is at pains to distance itself from al-Qaeda and other Islamist networks which are also causing carnage in Syria. This doesn’t mean that members in the Obama administration don’t welcome the Islamist angle at the moment but given the sensitivity over September 11, then actions must be based on being cunning and manipulating the media.

VIDEO EVIDENCE AGAINST THE FSA AND ISLAMIST NETWORKS – (WARNING – VERY GRAPHIC)

Saudi Arabia and Qatar are clearly supporting sedition and the knock on effect of this is sectarianism and terrorism. Likewise, the former leader of France and the new leader have openly sided with the FSA against the government of Syria. This is despite the vile acts of the patchwork of terrorists and mercenaries within the FSA. After all, the FSA have killed religious minorities, done car bombs, killed journalists, assassinated political ministers, beheaded individuals, killed Iraqi refugees in Damascus – and a whole array of evil deeds.

The United Kingdom appears to be following the path chosen by the Obama administration. This applies to condemning the Syria government and armed forces while remaining muted when the FSA is blamed for killing people. Also, just like America, it is clear that British covert operatives are utilizing the many links with regional nations. However, political leaders in London and Paris appear to want to intervene militarily on the side of terrorism but both nations want the full support of America before stepping over the direct interventionist line.

Media outlets continue to shame themselves by adopting a constant policy of incitement against Syria. Likewise, Human Rights Watch (HRW) appears to be the “political wing” of the FSA by constantly condemning the Syrian government while remaining muted about the vile deeds of the FSA. Indeed, by mentioning massacres from time to time by the FSA some media outlets and HRW are trying to cover their tracks but clearly media corporations and many human rights organizations are playing their part in inciting hatred.

Tony Cartalucci (Land Destroyer Report) comments that “It was recently pointed out that the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group (LIFG) currently arming, funding, and commanding entire brigades of the so-called “Free Syrian Army” (FSA) is designated an Al Qaeda affiliate by the United Nations pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1989 (2011), in addition to being listed by both the US State Departmentand the UK Home Office (page 5, .pdf)as a foreign terrorist organization and a proscribed terrorist organization respectively.”

“This means that the United States, the UK, NATO, and the Gulf State despots of Saudi Arabia and Qatar are knowingly and willfully funding designated affiliates of Al Qaeda contrary not only to US and British anti-terror legislation, but contrary to UN resolutions as well. Western and Gulf State support of the FSA constitutes state sponsorship of terrorism. Should the UN fail to enforce its own resolutions, while playing host to further sanctions and considerations for military intervention against the Syrian government, it will have entirely resigned its legitimacy and authority as nothing more than a tool of Western corporate-financier interests.”

The above comment raises the already known fact that American ratlines to FSA terrorism is in “a very dark and deep danger zone.” It is difficult to image after September 11 that any American administration would side openly with international terrorism. However, the role of Hillary Clinton, Susan Rice and many others in covering up the crimes of the FSA while bridging international support for this vile terrorist organization, is not only sickening but it raises deeply disturbing issues.

After all, what is the point in offering “American soldiers to Islamists” in Afghanistan and Iraq respectively, if the same evil forces are then supported to topple a secular government in Syria? Are the deaths of thousands of American soldiers so cheap? It should be raising serious questions in America because now the same Islamists who were fighting American troops in Iraq are now being allowed to enter Syria courtesy of the friends of America in Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Clearly the recent terrorist attack which killed many people during a funeral procession means little to political circles in Ankara, Doha, London, Paris, Riyadh and Washington. Therefore, the FSA is showing the world that democratic nations are openly siding with feudal monarchies in Qatar and Saudi Arabia in funding and supporting this brutal terrorist organization. It means that to the above political elites that killing minorities, beheading people who support the Syrian government, hanging individuals, car bombs, destroying Christian areas, inciting massacres against the Alawites, political assassination, killing journalists who support the Syrian government and a whole array of barbaric acts is not only being tolerated but it is being supported.

If the United States is serious about defeating the forces of terrorism then firstly this nation should be putting sanctions on France, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. After this, then political elites in Washington involved in ratlines should be charged with spreading terrorism in Syria. Of course, this isn’t going to happen and clearly September 11 this year is an event which is going to be politicized by the same forces supporting terrorism, sectarianism and sedition against Syria.

The mainly Christian Karen forces in Myanmar have been fighting for decades against various governments of this nation. However, this organization isn’t supported openly because the “wrong religion” to elites in Riyadh and Washington. Also, they don’t go around beheading people and video-taping their crimes. This rebel movement isn’t brutal enough to be supported despite their cause being based on ethnic and religious persecution.

The madness of the FSA is that political elites in Washington, Paris, London, Ankara, Riyadh and Doha have all sunk to new lows and this says a lot given the past history of these respective nations. Therefore, it is currently open season against secular Syria and the various minorities of this nation whereby a rich civilization faces Talibanization and utter brutality. Media agencies and HRW have all jumped on the bandwagon and now they resemble the “FSA party machinery.” Moscow is disgusted that nations are supporting sectarianism, terrorism and sedition but while their words of rebuke can be heard the same terrorist ratlines keep on increasing.

In a world based on international law and “the genuine fight against terrorism” then America would firstly put its allies in the “political dock” and then enter elites within America in “the same dock.” However, in the world of reality it is clear that the FSA can behead people, hang loyalists, do car bombs, kill government politicians, invade major cities to spread more carnage, attack people at funerals, kill refugees, kill journalist, torture people, cleanse Christians and target anyone deemed to be an enemy. If this is the new world order then God help the next country which will be targeted by evil forces in Washington, London, Paris, Ankara, Doha and Riyadh.

Ikebukuro is awash with fashion and in the last few years this part of Tokyo is re-inventing itself when it comes to stylish boutiques. Therefore, the opening of Miu Miu in the famous Seibu Department Store in late 2011 is mere confirmation that powerful boutiques view Ikebukuro in such a favorable light. This trend continues in 2012 and clearly this district is on “the fashion map” within Tokyo because of the buzzing fashion scene on both the east and west side.

It must be remembered that Ikebukuro train station is the second busiest in Japan and every week millions of people pass through this part of Tokyo. When this is added to the fact that Japanese people like convenience when it comes to shopping, then not surprisingly the fashion dimension within or around Ikebukuro train station is enormous. This reality means that the fashion area is a huge hub and Ikebukuro is also the gateway for people in Saitama prefecture.

Seibu Department Store and Tobu Department Store have a very rich history and both mega-companies, alongside Lumine, Marui, and Parco, are collectively creating a huge fashion district in Ikebukuro. Also, Esola is a lovely place for ladies fashion and you have scrumptious restaurants to eat.

Lumine, meanwhile, is one of the best fashion outlets in Tokyo and the store in Ikebukuro is a major attraction for Tokyo ladies because of lovely boutiques like SmackyGlam (Smacky Glam) and countless others. Also, the restaurant area in Lumine is a great place to relax and unwind.

Therefore, not surprisingly the fabulous boutique Miu Miu decided to open for business in Ikebukuro. While next year American Eagle Outfitters have also selected to open a store in this fashionable part of Tokyo alongside another store in the environment of Harajuku and Omotesando. This bodes well for the future of Ikebukuro because fashion is very dynamic in Tokyo and areas need to maintain their vibrancy.

In a past article by Modern Tokyo Times about fashion in Ikebukuro it was stated about American Eagle Outfitters that “The new store will have three floors of fashion in order to attract the fashion conscious and the international aspect is an added dimension. American Eagle Outfitters have clearly done their homework because Ikebukuro is a thriving fashion district in Tokyo and redevelopment projects are in the pipeline to further enhance the area.”

“Uniqlo also understands the reality of fashion in Ikebukuro because the future potential of this vibrant district is obvious. Therefore, Uniqlo will expand their presence in Ikebukuro and this applies to occupying two floors in Tobu Department Store.”

Obviously the same applies to Miu Miu who decided to expand their international operations in the Seibu Department Store in Ikebukuro. Also, the store was designed by Roberto Baciocchi and like usual for Miu Miu they focus on classic concepts and futuristic aspects. Therefore, you can have a lovely shopping experience and envisage the creativity of this exquisite company by viewing the stylish layout and theme of the Miu Miu store.

In the last few years Lumine and Esola have altered the fashion landscape of Ikebukuro and complemented Seibu Department Store, Tobu Department Store, Parco, and Marui. Also, the opening of the Fukutoshin Ikebukuro train station created a new fashion hub in Ikebukuro. This applies to delightful fashion boutiques and other shops which have created a lovely underground hub once leaving the main Fukutoshin Ikebukuro train exit.

The recent opening of Miu Miu and the future opening of American Eagle Outfitters in 2012, alongside the expansion of Uniqlo, is maintaining the vibrancy of Ikebukuro. Therefore, while Ikebukuro might not get the same media exposure, the reality on the ground is very different because Seibu Department Store, Tobu Department Store, Lumine, Marui, Parco, Esola, and other fashion outlets, would enhance any fashion district.

Not surprisingly, Miu Miu and other fashion companies are aware of the ongoing changes in Ikebukuro and future projects which will enhance this part of Tokyo. Given everything, the future of this fashion district is rosy and the elegance of the fashion scene is growing because of the quality of so many exquisite boutiques.

France and Turkey want a terrorist free zone to destroy the independence of Syria

Jibril Khoury and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

France and Turkey are in favor of creating “terrorist free zones” in order to create “areas of cancer” to destroy the independence of Syria. It is abundantly clear that leaders in Paris and Ankara care little about the reality that it is outside intervention which is responsible for the carnage against an independent state. After all, France and Turkey are two of the nations which are creating the carnage alongside America, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Kingdom.

President Francois Hollande of France stated that “We are working … [on] the initiative of buffer zones proposed by Turkey…We are doing so in co-ordination with our closest partners.” These buffer zones will also be “terrorist free zones” in order to enable the mercenary forces of the FSA to plan fresh religious cleansing attacks against Christians, Shia Muslims, Alawites and against Sunni Muslim areas which are loyal to the government of Syria.

It matters not to Hollande that the FSA have attacked religious minorities, targeted journalists openly, been responsible for countless numbers of terrorist attacks and are on video tapes whereby they behead and hang people deemed to be loyal to the government of Syria. Indeed, the more brutal the attacks by the FSA the more they appear to be rewarded by forces in Ankara and Paris who desire to hide behind America and NATO.

VIDEO EVIDENCE AGAINST THE FSA AND ISLAMIST NETWORKS – (WARNING – VERY GRAPHIC)

This behavior is being replicated by the international community which is allowing Saudi Arabia and Qatar to fund terrorism, sectarianism and sedition against sovereign Syria. The crisis in Bahrain is being contained because nations like Iran, the Russian Federation and China are not supporting international terrorism, sedition and sectarianism. However, for Syria it is clear that America, France, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the United Kingdom and Qatar are supporting the destabilization of Syria by funding and training terrorists and mercenaries.

Political leaders in Washington, London and Paris are also using the “chemical weapons issue” in order to justify international intervention. This reality is just like the “false flag” against secular Iraq whereby weapons of mass destruction were used to justify the invasion of this nation. Therefore, the three nuclear powers and the sellers of vast quantities of military hardware in the world are highlighting not only their complete hypocrisy – but they are also showing the world that they care nothing about alternative viewpoints in their continuing quest of invading sovereign nations which don’t fall into line.

Turkey is crying wolf about the refugee crisis which is clearly ridiculous because this nation is supporting the FSA which is responsible for entering major cities in Syria. Also, Syria took in over one million refugees from Iraq who fled this nation when the same Sunni Islamist terrorist networks began sectarianism and spreading terrorism throughout this country. Today, the same Islamist networks in Iraq are on the same side against secular Syria.

If individuals watch the many videos which highlight the brutal reality of the FSA and various Islamic terrorist organizations; then clearly it is difficult to fathom why this brutal reality is being supported openly. It is also difficult to understand the role of many leading media agencies which use manipulative language and often report misinformation even when evidence points in the other direction, or when not enough evidence can be found to justify false reporting. Therefore, many media agencies have flagrantly incited hatred and bowed down to powerful policy makers in Washington, London and Paris.

In Aleppo it is clear that the FSA not only invaded and committed many massacres but equally important it is obvious that the vast majority of citizens in this powerful city are against them. This doesn’t suit the sectarian rhetoric directed towards the government of Syria by nations which are supporting sectarianism because the Sunni Muslim majority did not openly demonstrate for the FSA. This is abundantly obvious because no major agency could show mass demonstrations in support of the FSA. However, when the Syrian armed forces began to control many areas of Aleppo then you had mass demonstrations in support of the government of Syria.

Therefore, why are nations like America, the United Kingdom, France and Turkey supporting the side of terrorism, sectarianism, killers of religious minorities and backing the FSA and Islamist groups which are beheading and hanging people? Not only this, nations like France and Turkey are now in the vanguard of trying to create “terrorist free zones” in Syria in order to crush the secular government of this nation. Nobody expects morality from Saudi Arabia which supports killing apostates and enslaves women; however, why are so-called “democratic nations” supporting the feudal monarchies of Qatar and Saudi Arabia in their sectarian plots?

Roberto Cavalli towards late 2011 opened a new store in the exquisite area of Aoyama in Tokyo. Other companies like Akris, Bally, Freitag and many more also targeted the vibrant city of Tokyo in the same year. In 2012 the continuing growth of Roberto Cavalli can be seen throughout Northeast Asia by the recent opening of a new store in Beijing, China.

It is clear that in recent years the popularity of major cities in China like Beijing and Shanghai, and a host of others, are attracting the crème de la crème of international fashion companies. Therefore, Roberto Cavalli recently opened the first phase of a new store in the vibrant city of Beijing.

Roberto Cavalli commented that “Beijing is becoming one of the most vibrant and glamorous capitals in the world. It was time to open a Roberto Cavalli boutique to give the possibility to my many Chinese fans to discover my world in its entirety. For years, the most beautiful movie actresses of this country have loved wearing my collections on the international red carpet … Now my fashion and my style will be accessible to all. The femininity and beauty of Asian women has always inspired me …”

It is clear that Roberto Cavalli speaks from the heart because his words hit a chord immediately. When Roberto Cavalli spoke about Tokyo he stated that “Tokyo is on the world’s stage of fashion, glamour, and sophistication. This is a city of energy and inspiration.”He continued by stating that “I wanted to create a boutique in which elegance dominates, for both women and for men, in a welcoming and exclusive atmosphere, in which each person can totally fulfill their dreams and desires. I have always been extremely interested in Japanese culture…..”

Therefore, the vibrant reality of both Beijing and Tokyo appealed greatly to Roberto Cavalli. Equally important alongside the trendy reality of both major cities is the purchasing power which is enormous. Also, like Roberto Cavalli commented “For years, the most beautiful movie actresses of this country have loved wearing my collections,” and now his new collections are open to the people of Beijing and Tokyo.

The new Roberto Cavalli store in Beijing is based in the highly acclaimed arcade area of the Peninsula Hotel. Therefore, just like Roberto Cavalli picked Aoyama in Tokyo because of sophistication, style, and the richness of architecture. He also decided on this part of Beijing because it is known for exquisite brands which sell luxury products to eager clients.

April 18, 2012, was the initial opening time whereby the first phase was implemented and the second phase is hoping to be finished by early 2013. It is reported that once everything is put into place then Roberto Cavalli will visit Beijing.

In an article published on http://fibre2fashion.com it is stated that “The Beijing store hosts the women’s and men’s prêt-à-porter collections, as well as the accessories, eyewear, perfumes, time-wear and kidswear collections. The layout of the space has been specifically designed in such a way to emphasize the various product categories present in the store.”

Once everything is completed then the ground floor will cater for fashionable ladies and the basement area will cater for stylish men who adore quality in abundance. Also, the store will provide a special VIP room whereby individuals will be fully cared for in their requests for finding new and beautiful clothes. At the same time, great detail will be put on the design of the store and the same applies to the layout. Therefore, for fashion lovers it will be a great experience in trendy Beijing.

In an earlier article by Modern Tokyo Times related to why Roberto Cavalli picked Aoyama in Tokyo it was stated that “Also, you have stylish and exquisite shopping stores in this exclusive fashion district which includes Boutique W, Dress Camp, Flair Aoyama, Loveless and other stunning shopping stores. Therefore, Roberto Cavalli picked an ideal location because the proximity of Aoyama to Omotesando, Harajuku and Shibuya means the entire area is awash with creativity, exquisite boutiques, energy, sophistication, changing styles and one long and continuous fashion scene, which would grace any major city in the world.”

Therefore, it is clear that Roberto Cavalli thought deeply before picking ideal locations for his new stores in Beijing and Tokyo. True to nature, he picked places based on sophistication, grace and panache.

Pola Museum of Art in stunning Hakone: Picasso and the Pola Collection

Sarah Deschamps and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The Pola Museum of Art (http://www.polamuseum.or.jp/english/) in stunning Hakone is once more providing another beautiful collection to enjoy. This delightful and cultural museum is following on from the last beautiful exhibition which highlighted The Development of Impressionism: Monet, Renoir, and the Next Generations. Therefore, while this exhibition is now finished you now have another stunning exhibition titledPicasso and the Pola Collection (1st Period) which runs between July 14 and October 2, 2012.

If individuals have never been to Hakone then this place is truly magical and within reasonable distance from Tokyo. Indeed, for people who reside in Japan then visiting once isn’t enough because you have so many options available.

This applies to the stunning views which can be witnessed in all directions. The amazing natural beauty of the countryside and spectacular views of Mount Fuji from various vantage points is a wonder to behold. On top of this is the cultural side to Hakone because you have so many different galleries and cultural themes to visit. Therefore, Hakone is a place to enjoy the beautiful mountain landscapes and to connect with Japanese culture.

In total you have three exhibitions being linked together but which will be exhibited at different times. The second exhibition is called Monet and the Pola Collection (2nd Period) which runs from October 5, 2012 to February 26, 2013. This will be followed by the final and third exhibition titled Sugiyama Yasushi and the Pola Collection (3rd Period) which will be held from March 1, 2013 to July 7, 2013.

The binding theme of all three exhibitions is Suzuki Tsuneshi (1930-2000). This can be seen by the title called Looking for Beauty: Art Collector Suzuki Tsuneshi. In total Suzuki Tsuneshi graced the world of art by collecting countless stunning pieces of art over a period of 40 years.

On the Pola Museum of Art website it is stated that “Suzuki Tsuneshi (1930 – 2000), son of the founder of Pola Orbis Group, assembled the works in the Pola Museum of Art collection over a period of 40 years. In all, there are around 9500 works, representing a range of genres, including modern European painting, modern Japanese Western-style painting, contemporary nihonga(Japanese-style painting), prints, sculpture, Oriental ceramics, modern and contemporary Japanese ceramics, glasswork, and cosmetic utensils.”

“The Pola Museum of Art collection, recognized as the largest, in both diversity and quality, by a Japanese post-war private collector, was created almost entirely by Suzuki Tsuneshi, a reserved person who talked little about the artworks or his collecting activities. Since the Museum’s opening, we have been interacting with the collection and making efforts to understand the artistic sense of this unassuming man. By analyzing works that strongly relate to Suzuki as an individual and as a public figure, this 10th anniversary exhibition aims to explore how Suzuki built up the collection. Further, the exhibition introduces cultural activities Suzuki Tsuneshi engaged in.”

It is clear by the list above that you have a rich mixture of Japanese and Western artists. Also, the different styles are another attraction and clearly Oka Shikanosuke and Henri Rousseau flow naturally together. Therefore, the exhibition is a must place to visit for people who adore art.

Also, within the museum you can eat delicious European cuisine and enjoy the stunning scenery. For individuals who prefer something more casual then people can enjoy tea, coffee and snacks. Another added bonus is the Museum Shop which is a lovely place to browse around and buy delightful products.

In another article about the beautiful nature of Hakone and the cultural angle of this amazing place it was stated by Modern Tokyo Times that “Hakone is situated in the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park and the entire region is a tourist paradise whereby stunning nature is in all directions and you have so many cultural treasures to view. This notably applies to the Narukawa Art Museum for modern Japanese paintings; the Hakone Open Air Museum; the Pola Museum of Art; Venetian Glass Museum; Suzuhiro Corp. Kamaboko Museum; volcanically active Owakudani geysers; Hakone Botanical Garden of Wetlands; Odawara Castle Donjon; Local History Museum; Museum of Saint Exupery and the Little Pince in Hakone; Hakone Old Takaido Road Museum; Hakone Mononofu-no-Sato Art Museum; Hakone Art Museum; Honma Yosegi Museum; Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History; and you have a wealth of parks and special walks to go on.”

If individuals are lucky then it is highly recommended to stay for a few days in beautiful Hakone and enjoy the best of stunning nature and the array of culture provided. Of course, the Pola Museum of Art is a must place to visit because of the delightful exhibitions they provide. Also, the express train from Tokyo to Hakone doesn’t take so long and the Odakyu Train Group provides a fantastic transport service if you buy a special pass.

Images in this article relate to the artists who will be highlighted and not to any specific art pieces which will be part of the exhibition. Please view the website of the Pola Museum of Art to find out more.

Japanese art and Kamisaka Sekka: Rimpa, modernism and European influence

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The artist Kamisaka Sekka (1866-1942) is one of the most mysterious Japanese artists to have hit the international world of art. This applies to his magical artwork which expresses the finer aspects of traditional Japanese art but fused with modernism and the impact of European art. Therefore, Kamisaka Sekka was an artist which belonged equally to the old world and new world of art which was impacting on the Japanese art scene.

Kamisaka Sekka was born in the cultural city of Kyoto and one can only imagine the splendor he must have witnessed in his early life. This similarly applies to the stunning reality of Kansai and places like Nara and Koyasan where religion, traditions and Japanese high culture, remains vibrant in the modern world.

The internal convulsions that hit Japan after the Meiji Restoration in 1868 radically altered the body politic of this nation. Indeed, Kamisaka Sekka lived in a period blighted by regional wars and major international wars. This reality highlights the convulsions that were sweeping through many nations whereby nationalism, capitalism, the colonial period, communism, technological innovations, religion, secularism, and so many different forces, were shaping the world for either the better or worse.

However, in the field of art then the same period provided enormous opportunities for Japanese artists to study various different art forms and to travel the world. Kamisaka Sekka would indeed travel to learn about new concepts and to open-up his artistic horizons to an even greater level. True to the nature of Kamisaka Sekka he gained enormously from his travels and studying about new art forms. However, he never lost sight of the power of Rimpa and the inner beauty of Japanese art.

From a very early age it was clear that Kamisaka Sekka was blessed with amazing artistic skills. In the early period he focused heavily on the traditions of Japanese Rimpa. However, he was always open to new art forms and styles. Therefore, modernism and traditions fused naturally together within his heart and this is the beauty of Kamisaka Sekka.

In an earlier article about Kamisaka Sekka I state that “In 1910 the Japanese government sent Kamisaka Sekka to the United Kingdom and while he stayed in Glasgow the Art Nouveau style would influenced him greatly. Kamisaka Sekka was also fascinated by Japonisme and he wanted to understand the attraction of Japanese art in the West and which areas appealed the most. Therefore, his time in Glasgow was most rewarding because his studies enlightened him in many areas.”

Also, the trip to Glasgow in 1910 further cemented his deep admiration of aspects of European art. His earlier trip to Europe in 1901 had impacted greatly on Kamisaka Sekka because the Paris International Exposition opened up his eyes to new fresh ideas and concepts.”

One can only imagination how the environment of Kyoto and his studies of Rimpa masters who blessed the Japanese art world had impacted on Kamisaka Sekka. Added to this were major Western art forms like Impressionism and Art Nouveau which reached his heart. Also, Kamisaka Sekka was fascinated about the impact of Japanese art on Western art. Therefore, in a world being torn apart by nationalism and politics you had artists like Kamisaka Sekka who studied the beauty of humanity and the power of different cultures.

The Art Institute of Chicago comments that “Centuries-old schools of art, such as the decorative Rimpa style with its quintessential Japanese literary and seasonal themes, had become unfashionable. To help keep the country’s unique artistic culture afloat, the government established a policy to upgrade the status of traditional artists that encouraged them to infuse their craft with a dose of modernism. Consequently, in 1910 Sekka was sent abroad to Glasgow, where he was heavily influenced by Art Nouveau. He came home to teach at the newly opened Kyoto Municipal School of Arts and Crafts. Thanks to Sekka, the Rimpa tradition remains a signature of Kyoto design to this day.”

Kamisaka Sekka highlights how individuals can learn new artistic thought patterns and art forms but remain within the initial environment despite fusing new ideas. He truly is an international artist who pushed new internal boundaries in order to produce stunning pieces of art. Therefore, when viewing his finest pieces of art you can feel many different things related to the past and modernity. This quality was done in a way which was not only natural but is strikingly unique and beautiful.

Many amazing artists have been born in Japan and without a shred of doubt Kamisaka Sekka belongs to the crème de la crème of Japanese art. His creativity and connection with the old world and modernism enabled him to reach new heights and to highlight many artistic angles.